Rep. Hodges Introduces Legislation to Raise Awareness of Human Trafficking

    In light of recent events in Nigeria, State Representative Valarie Hodges, R-Denham Springs, introduced House Concurrent Resolution 138 (HCR 138) to the House Wednesday, May 7.  HCR 138, authored by Hodges, raises awareness of the issue of human trafficking and sex trafficking, internationally and here in Louisiana, by encouraging Congress to take action to end this modern-day slavery.  This Resolution was accompanied by a moment of silence and prayer to aid Nigeria in hopes of finding the two hundred and seventy-six remaining missing girls.
    Rep. Hodges was the co-chair of the human trafficking Task Force last year which resulted in the package of legislation, HB 1025, that was introduced in the Legislature this year and awaits the Governor's signature. This legislation will improve laws to catch and punish criminals involved with human trafficking; ensures law enforcement personnel receive specific training related to human trafficking; and prioritizes help for victims of human trafficking.
    Hodges said, “Human-trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery that is prevalent in our lives today, not only in regards to incidents such as the one in Nigeria, but also here in Louisiana.  It is important that we continue to focus our efforts on raising awareness of this issue, so that we can keep such heinous acts from occurring.  HCR 138 is one way I hope to bring about this increased awareness in order to aid Nigeria and prevent incidents like this one in the future.”